Mean Girls

Mean Girls at Paramount Theatre

Get ready for sharp comedy, catchy pop-rock music, and plenty of high-school drama when Mean Girls takes the stage at Paramount Theatre on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, at 1:30 PM. Presented as the Chicago-area premiere, this musical adaptation brings the story made famous by Tina Fey’s iconic film to the stage with a combination of humor, heart, and memorable characters.

The production features a book by Tina Fey, music by Jeff Richmond, and lyrics by Nell Benjamin, with direction by Devon Hayakawa. The musical received 12 Tony Award nominations, including nominations for Best Musical and Best Original Score, making this production an appealing choice for theatergoers eager to experience the acclaimed stage version.

At the center of the story is Cady Heron, a smart and kind newcomer who has moved from Africa to suburban Illinois. Her arrival at North Shore High introduces her to an entirely new social world, including The Plastics, the school’s most popular—and ruthless—clique. Led by queen bee Regina George, The Plastics quickly draw Cady into their orbit. What begins as an attempt to understand the school’s social hierarchy soon becomes a complicated journey involving friendship, popularity, revenge, and the pressure to fit in.

With bold style, big laughs, and unforgettable songs, Mean Girls offers a story that goes beyond the familiar high-school stereotypes. Its themes of belonging, identity, and the consequences of chasing popularity can resonate with anyone who has ever felt pressure to fit into a particular crowd.

The Paramount Theatre also offers accessible performances during the production. An Open Captioned performance is scheduled for Wednesday, September 30 at 7 p.m., while an American Sign Language-interpreted performance will take place Friday, October 9 at 7 p.m. Guests attending the ASL performance can use the code ASLPARAMOUNT to access the ASL seating section and discounted price. Audio description is available upon request, based on availability, by calling the Box Office at 630-896-6666.

For fans of the original film, musical theater enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a funny story with heart, the September 2 performance offers an opportunity to experience Mean Girls live at Paramount Theatre. And, in keeping with the spirit of the show, wearing pink on Wednesdays remains highly encouraged.